Tarchen
塔尔钦 · Town · Ngari
Tarchen is the base camp for the Kailash kora at about 4,600 m, with guesthouses, Sichuan restaurants, gear rental and pony agents. Rooms are tight in the June–September season, so book ahead.
TypeTown
Altitude4,600 m (15,092 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 1.5 hours
Opening hoursShops ~09:30–21:00; street open all day
Overview
Quick facts about Tarchen
Quick answer
Tarchen is the base camp for the Kailash kora at about 4,600 m, with guesthouses, Sichuan restaurants, gear rental and pony agents. Rooms are tight in the June–September season, so book ahead.
| Type | Town |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 4,600 m (15,092 ft) |
| Visit length | About 1.5 hours |
| Opening hours | Shops ~09:30–21:00; street open all day |
How to visit
Practical advice from our Lhasa team.
- Walk slowly. Steep stairs at altitude are harder — come on your second or third day, not the day you arrive.
- Taxi drop-off: Nearest drop-off at the street entrance
- Bus: City buses stop at the district edge
Hotels near Tarchen
Sorted by walking or driving distance when we have it; otherwise hotels we use in the same city.
Best time to visit
Average daily high and low in °C, and monthly rain in mm. Roads to this area can close in winter.
Daily highDaily lowRain
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
BestGoodCold or limited access
Nearby
Questions
Tarchen is at about 4,600 m (15,092 ft) above sea level. Plan a slow first day and drink plenty of water.
The better months are usually May, June, September.
Yes. All foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit, and some areas need extra permits. We file them for you with every booking.
About 1.5 hours
Visiting Ngari?
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